The exercise of the right to protest must not violate the rights of others

As South Africa approaches Human Rights Day, President Cyril Ramaphosa reminds the nation that their rights were earned through great sacrifices. In his weekly newsletter, he stresses that the right to protest cannot impinge on the rights of others as reported by SA News.

The President clarifies that the right to protest does not extend to harassment, intimidation, threats, property damage, or harm to any person.

He affirms that one person’s right to protest should not interfere with others’ right to life, dignity, freedom of movement and association, or their ability to conduct their trade or profession.

As South Africans remember the Sharpeville Massacre of 1960, the President urges them to defend the right to peaceful protest.

The Constitution stipulates that the state must “respect, protect, promote and fulfil” all the freedoms in the Bill of Rights.

The government has a duty to uphold the right to peaceful protest while preventing any attempt to violate any other rights.

The President promises that the government will ensure a safe and secure environment for those who want to work, travel, and conduct business.

Security personnel will be deployed across the country to ensure that the law is observed, and the freedoms enshrined in the Bill of Rights will be protected.

Photo: Facebook / @Cyril Ramaphosa